World Bank President Ajay Banga named in US Great Immigrants list of 2023

USA

Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank, Earns Prestigious Spot on Carnegie Corporation’s “Great Immigrants” List

Ajay Banga, the newly appointed chief of the World Bank, has been recognized on the annual “Great Immigrants” list by the Carnegie Corporation of New York. He is commended for his significant contributions and endeavors in enriching America and strengthening its democracy. This distinction marks a significant milestone as Banga becomes the first-ever Indian American to lead the esteemed institution. Among the honorees in this year’s list of “Great Immigrants” by the Carnegie Corporation of New York, Banga stands as the sole representative from India.

With an extensive background spanning over 30 years in influential roles, the 63-year-old Banga is poised to introduce transformative policies at the World Bank, tackling poverty and addressing the pressing issue of climate change. The Carnegie Corporation’s statement, released on Wednesday, highlights his commitment to opening doors of opportunity for people worldwide.

Carnegie Corporation of New York today announced its annual list of Great Immigrants, honoring 35 naturalized citizens who have enriched and strengthened our society and our democracy. Each Fourth of July since 2006, the philanthropic foundation has invited Americans to celebrate these exemplary individuals by participating in its online public awareness campaign, Great Immigrants, Great Americans. #GreatImmigrants

The 2023 Class of Great Immigrants is comprised of naturalized citizens from 33 countries and a wide range of backgrounds and fields. For generations, immigrants have come to the United States seeking opportunities for themselves and their families. Among this year’s honorees are individuals who have fostered opportunities for others through their work as educators, mentors, philanthropists, job creators, public servants, storytellers, and advocates.

Additional 2023 honorees are recognized leaders in their fields, including two Nobel laureates, an Olympian, and a member of Congress. Among the honorees are Elle magazine editor in chief and TV personality Nina Garcia, best-selling novelist Min Jin Lee, seven-time Grammy Award winner Alanis Morissette, Hollywood star Pedro Pascal, and Academy Award winner Ke Huy Quan.

“The Great Immigrants initiative is a tribute to the legacy of Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish immigrant who, like these honorees, found success in America, contributed enormously to his adopted country, and inspired others to do the same,” said Dame Louise Richardson, president of Carnegie Corporation of New York, and a naturalized citizen who first came to the United States from Ireland as a graduate student. “The 35 naturalized citizens honored today embody that tradition, reminding us that the contributions of immigrants make our country more vibrant and our democracy more resilient.”